As spring approaches, the boys tennis team is preparing to swing in with high hopes of a successful season.
In past seasons, the team has done incredibly well. Last season, the team secured an IHSA State Title for the second year in a row. Additionally, the varsity team held several SSC first place titles. Head coach, Jon Deguzman, is excited to push the team to do their best.
“The past couple of years have been fantastic for the program. Obviously, taking the conference [title], but also qualifying for the state tournament,” Deguzman said.
Regardless of the team’s previous successes through its individual players, the athletes have continually proven that they are capable of working together as a team.
“I would say the team is quite supportive and collaborative. Players are always willing to help each other out during practice. Everyone understands that they can always improve,” junior Szymon Bilek said.
Despite the stress that maintaining records may uphold, both coaches and players are excited to hit the court once again and improve their skills.
“I just want to better myself this year. My determination [comes from] me knowing I still have next year [to play],” an anonymous athlete of the varsity lineup said. “I want to find out what I need to do.”
In terms of long-term goals, many on the team envision being state-bound. Beyond that, building an even stronger team community and culture is just as valuable.
“The connections that [the players] make and the competitiveness that they bring are the types of things that [are] part of the culture of tennis,” Deguzman said. “That’s something I really want [the players] to see.”
As of now, the team is still awaiting their first match, which is set to take place against Oak Lawn Community on April 2 at home. The team still has time to practice and put their best foot forward.
“I want my guys to take away that they’re a part of a program that is extremely accomplished, [and] that they were part of something that was meaningful,” Deguzman said.
Hopefully, the upcoming season will provide plenty of opportunities for the team to show off their skills and leave a mark on the team’s history.
